WASHINGTON — Ron Harwell doesn't like the idea of Tennessee seceding from the United States. Nor does he like the idea of four more years of President Barack Obama.

But if those are his choices — and after last week's election, those are indeed his choices — then he'll take secession.

"If we can't do better than getting a communist sitting in the White House, let's secede," said Harwell, treasurer of the Roane County tea party. "Let's get the hell out of Dodge. Let's find out what other options this country has."